Overview

If not for the annual activities and festivals held in Elkins each year, tourists will find the quaint community of Elkins relatively quiet, safe, and far—which is perfect for relaxing vacations. Set in the heart of the Mountain Highlands, Elkins is considered a gateway to the Monongahela National Forest and several colleges. Easy access to some of the most celebrated landmarks, forests, and state parks in the Mid-Atlantic and a wealth of outdoor opportunities make Elkins welcome each of its residents and guests. The city in Randolph County is home to several community arts and theater, diverse dining, and a number of unique shops. The natural paradise has long been a destination for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and travelers. In Elkins you will find a charming yet relatively quiet community alive with the arts, rich with proud heritage, and graced with inimitable scenic beauty.

Things to Do

At specific times in the year tourists will find some people in full costume crowding Elkins’ streets. The whole downtown becomes a reflection of the medieval fantasy setting of a local game. The townspeople assume roles of characters, while residents and guests play through battles, puzzles, and stories held by the staff of Elkins Live Fantasy. Tourists can also choose from skiing activities offered by the Timberline Four Seasons Resort, Snowshoe Mountain, and Canaan Valley Resort. Wading and swimming activities are allowed during the summer in Stuart Park. Tourists can also explore West Virginia’s Underground Wonderland, and join the commercial tours of the Seneca Caverns.

Best Hotel Accommodations

Swimming pools, free wireless internet, and complementary breakfast are offered by the budget accommodations of Elkins Econo Lodge and Days Inn Elkins. For a few dollars more, tourists can enjoy private outdoor hot tubs, fully-equipped kitchens, and observation decks of Cheat River Lodge. For twice the price, tourists can stay within Davis & Elkins College at the Graceland Inn and Conference Center. The Victorian mansion has 11 rooms and an on-site restaurant. Book your Elkins Hotels with Reservations.com.

When to Visit

There are several events in Elkins throughout the year. Every Wednesday afternoon, the residents get-together for Pickin’ in the Park, which features fiddle performances. Held for several days in early fall, the Mountain State Forest Festival has been celebrated for 75 years. Parades and food fairs fill the streets and corners of Elkins College Campus. Held for more than 5 consecutive weeks each summer, the Augusta Heritage Festival features more than ten themes of musical performances. The festival features dance, Irish, Cajun, Blue Grass, Old Time, and metal woodworking. The festival attracts a unique blend of students and musicians from all over the world. By the end of April Elkins celebrates the Randolph County International Ramp Cookoff and Festival, which features craft vendors, concerts, recipes, and cooking competitions. The focus is an indigenous herb known as ramp, which is found in the region.

Restaurants and Dining

There are several restaurants in the city. Pub style food and a decent menu in Beander’s at Due North cater to Elkins’ younger crowds. Vegetarian options and fine dining are offered at Cheat River Inn, while CJ Maggies offers a diverse menu of casual eats. Pasta plates, sandwiches, and Appalachian Ale are available in the restaurant. Try the simple offerings of sawmill steak sandwich and sausage gravies with home fries offered by the Sawmill Restaurant. The place also features a salad and corn bread bar.